It’s been difficult to assess Arsenal’s transfer of Fabio Vieira from the summer. Not only because he hasn’t had consistent game time, but he’s also lacked a level of consistency on the pitch. Now that he’s starting to get more action, though, Arsenal fans are realising more and more each week why Mikel Arteta wanted to sign him.
Fabio Vieira has only started one Premier League game so far this season, coming off the bench 13 times. He’s started every Europa League game so far, though. Therefore, Arteta has tried to integrate him into the team, but his performances from the bench have recently become much better.
Given the injury to Thomas Partey, Jorginho has started the last two games. However, this has indirectly benefited Fabio Vieira, who is also seeing more action on the pitch as a result of Partey’s unfortunate injury.
Vieira played only 11 minutes but he got a vital assist for Gabriel Martinelli to wrap up the dramatic win. You could see how much it meant to Vieira to be part of the counter attack as he celebrated before Martinelli had even scored.
This level of passion doesn’t go unnoticed by the Arsenal fans. Some of whom have been vocal on Twitter about their desire to get Vieira in the starting eleven more often, in place of Granit Xhaka.
Xhaka has been a key figurehead to the Arsenal midfield this season as he’s their most improved player. That said, he’s starting to feel the effect of a busy schedule as his form has hindered a little.
To read about Leandro Trossard’s deserved debut, click here.
Arsenal fans call for Fabio Vieira to start ahead of Granit Xhaka
This Arsenal fan thinks Vieira should be given more than just 10 minutes each game. According to WhoScored, Vieira has only played an average of 10 minutes over his last 4 games.
Our LHS was so dead almost all game, even after Martinelli came on. Things only changed after Vieira came on for Xhaka and he started finding Martinelli in behind. I really want us to start Vieira against Leicester
— 🔪 (@Knifesedge11) February 18, 2023
Vieira made a big difference yesterday.
This isn't a reactionary take, but we need to see more of Fabio Vieira.
— $CHIKE (@Klarence_o) February 18, 2023
Xhaka is clearly having a rough patch atm.
More people are starting to get on board with this idea.
Fabio Vieira needs more pitch time for 2 reasons:
— Dr. Rajpal Brar, DPT (@3cbPerformance) February 18, 2023
1 - Xhaka clearly needs a bit of a mental reset imo. overthinking when he’s in crucial windows.
2 - Vieira has earned it with his play. Sharp & effective movement, wicked touch & continues to develop positional IQ#arsenal
And that, well that sums it all up.
Do you think that Fabio Vieira should start ahead of Granit Xhaka?